Are you moving to a cold climate? There are some things you should know, especially if you’re moving to a cold state for the first time. We’ve rounded up our best tips so you can feel prepared before your move.
Pare down on clothes you will no longer need in a cold climate
If you are moving from a much warmer state like Florida, you won’t need to pack up all those flip-flops or open-toed shoes. Since you no longer will be living in shorts and tanks year round, pare down on your summer apparel. You can donate or sell the clothes you no longer need. Consider hosting a moving sale before your big move.
Buy cold weather apparel after you move
You may get excited over your move and be tempted to start buying winter gear right away, but it’s better to wait until after your move. Winter gear takes up a lot of space. The less you need to pack the better. Traveling as light as possible will help keep the moving costs low.
Learn to layer like a pro
The key to staying warm in a cold climate is to layer like a pro. After moving, invest in thermal underwear. Use it as a base layer. Over your thermal underwear, you’ll need an insulating layer like a wool sweater or fleece. Lastly, top it all of with an outer layer like a jacket that goes below the knees. A waterproof down jacket with a hood is an excellent investment.
Stock up on hydrating lotions and lip balms
Protect your skin from chafing by stocking up on hydrating lotions. You’ll also want to stock up on lip blams to prevent your lips from getting dry and chapped.
Be prepared for higher heating bills
Since you’ll be using the heat a lot more in colder climates, your heating bills will be alot higher. One thing to consider is to keep your indoor temperatures around high fifties. This will help prevent pipes from freezing and bursting.
Get accustomed to going outside
After moving to a colder climate, the best thing to do is to get acclimated to the weather. This means going outside often. The quicker you can get used to being in the freezing cold weather outside, the quicker you’ll be able to adjust and enjoy your new hometown.
Engage in fun winter activities
Take advantage of the fun activities you can only do in snow like building a snowman or going sledding. Have a snowball fight or make a snow angel. You can also try skiing or ice-skating.
Invest in a sun lamp or light therapy box
In many areas of colder climates, the sun goes down a lot earlier. However, you can combat the lack of sunshine with a sun lamp or light therapy box. These tools can mimic the effects of daylight and uplift your spirits.
Invest in snow removal equipment
Although snow can be pretty to look at and fun to play in, it requires extra maintenance. You’ll need equipment to keep your driveway and walkways free of snow and ice. Snow and icicles should be removed from the roof of your home. You’ll often need to dig your car out in order to drive it.
Practice driving in the snow
It’s important to practice driving in the snow so you can feel more confident and in control while getting around. Start by practicing in an empty parking lot. Practice handling your car in the event of a fishtail. This is when your back tires lose traction and your rear end skids to one side. The key is turning the front wheels in the same direction as the skid. If your rear is swinging to the right, turn your wheel right as well, but avoid overcorrecting. Preparing for a fishtail will help you stay calmer in the case that it happens. You may also consider investing in a car with four-wheel drive if you don’t own one already.
Create a winter survival kit for your car
In case you may find yourself stranded in a car during a snowstorm or blizzard, it’s a great idea to keep a winter survival kit in your car. Some essential items for this kit include a flashlight, emergency flares, a whistle, and a first aid kit. Also include tools like a snow shovel, road salt, ice scraper and brush, and jumper cables. We recommend including a thermal blanket, an extra pair of cold-weather clothes, and gear. For emergency sustenance, include high-calorie, non-perishable snacks and water.
For unpacking tips after your move, check out this post.
Need help with your move? Hire a White Glove Moving Comany
If you need help with your move, consider hiring a white glove moving company like Megan’s Moving. Whether you’re moving to a cold climate a few states away or cross-country, our sister company, UNITS Orlando Moving & Portable Storage, can offer a complete, end-to-end moving solution. UNITS containers are clean, safe, secure, and weather-resistant. UNITS has nationwide storage facilities and can handle long distance moves. Request a quote for your move today.